MUGABE R
Farmers in Kyabahanga Parish, Bwambara Sub County in Rukungiri District have appealed to State House to investigate the forceful demolition and removal of irrigation equipment they say has been vital to their livelihoods.
The irrigation system was originally established in 2017 with support from State House following severe drought in Bwambara Sub County. The project, aimed at boosting food security, became operational in 2020 but later deteriorated after issues linked to water source diversion.
Tensions flared on the evening of April 1, 2026, when personnel in vehicles branded with the Ministry of Water and Environment, accompanied by police officers, arrived at the site. According to eyewitness accounts, the group began dismantling the irrigation equipment, prompting resistance from local farmers and leading to a confrontation. The situation escalated, drawing in additional police officers who used tear gas and fired shots into the air to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Residents and farmers expressed deep concern over the operation. Sadres Kyarikunda, a nearby farmer, described the incident as distressing, noting that it disrupted the peace in the area. Apollo Banguhira, whose family donated land for the irrigation project, said they were troubled that the equipment was removed without their knowledge, especially at night and under heavy security.
CUE…SADRESI KYABAHANGA RR.
CUE………APPOLO…KYABAHANGA…RR
Some community members, however, said they had been informed about the planned relocation of the equipment. God Oworinawe noted that the demolition team had communicated intentions to transfer the irrigation system to another farmer in Buyanja Sub County.They accused the Rukungiri District RDC of using his authority in an improper manner and ordering the demolition of the project without engaging stakeholders.
CUE…GOD KYABAHANGA RR.
Gideon Bandonda, a retired lay reader and local farmer, stated that the removal was part of a directive reportedly communicated through the area leadership, including the Member of Parliament and Minister for Security, Hon. Jim Muhwezi. He called for clarification from the authorities involved.
CUE…GIDEON KYABAHANGA RR.
The farmers’ chairperson, Richard Hafasha, criticized the manner in which the equipment was taken, arguing that the project had never been fully completed and had suffered from poor workmanship. He urged government to provide clarity on the decision.
Bwambara Sub County District Councilor Gideon Ntunguura also condemned the action, describing it as inappropriate for a public project meant to serve the community. He called for intervention from State House to ensure justice for the affected farmers.
CUE….GIDEON KYABAHANGA RR.
Rukungiri Resident District Commissioner Buroni Kikanshemeza acknowledged challenges faced in maintaining the irrigation system and said the district had resolved to reallocate the equipment in line with guidance from the Permanent Secretary, following petitions from local stakeholders.
CUE…BURONI KYABAHANGA RR.
As investigations and discussions continue, farmers in Kyabahanga Parish are urging authorities to provide clear communication and ensure that public projects designed to support communities are handled transparently and fairly.
